This gives a whole new meaning to the term dog paddle.

For the first time, the Jamie Platz Family YMCA is opening its pool to local pooches.

Edmonton canines are invited to take a dip on Sunday, June 26, before the pool is drained and cleaned for the season.

"What better way to end our season then to let our four-legged friends come in for a swim," said Anna Liska, aquatics supervisor for the Jamie Platz YMCA.

"We're pretty excited."

Admission is $12 per dog. All proceeds will be donated to the YMCA Strong Kids campaign, which helps children and families access YMCA services and programs.

There will be separate swim times for large and small dogs and the chlorine levels in the pool have been adjusted to ensure the safety of the animals.

And although all pooches are welcome, their owners are asked to stay out of the water.

They're expecting 150 dogs to take the plunge.

"It's becoming pretty popular," Liska said. "There is a lot of passion and excitement around this event."

And when the fur flies this weekend, pool rules still apply.

"Same as people, they're going to have to shower before they get in the pool to help get some of that excess hair off," Liska said on a Tuesday morning interview on CBC Radio's Edmonton AM.

"And then outside of that, same as the kids, we're asking for good behaviour while they're in the pool. And no running on the pool deck."

Handlers who are 16 years old or older must accompany the dogs and bring current proof of their pet's rabies vaccination. Owners are encouraged to register at their local YMCA prior to the event.

And Liska has already made a reservation for her dog, Koda.

"I have three dogs, and only one of them will be getting into the pool. The rest I would have to kind of drag in."

"I'm bringing my one happy swimmer. He's a sheltie cross. And we go down to the lake a lot by my house and he just goes nuts."